Where is the Error in My Derivation of the Magnetic Field Equation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of the magnetic field equation, specifically the expression ##\tilde{B}^k(\vec{q})=-i\varepsilon^{ijk}q^i\tilde{A}^j_{cl}(\vec{q})##. The user identifies a discrepancy between their derived equation and the one presented in the reference book, which is attributed to the metric used, ##(+---)##. The correct interpretation leads to the conclusion that the equation should be ##\tilde{B}^k=i\varepsilon^{ijk}q^i\tilde{A}^j(\vec{q})##. The discussion emphasizes the importance of verifying formulas, particularly in texts like Peskin and Schroeder, which may contain errors.

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  • Understanding of vector calculus, specifically the curl operation.
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic theory and the role of vector potentials.
  • Knowledge of tensor notation and the Levi-Civita symbol.
  • Basic concepts of quantum field theory as referenced in Peskin and Schroeder.
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  • Study the derivation of the magnetic field from vector potentials in classical electromagnetism.
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  • Review the metric conventions used in general relativity and their implications for physical equations.
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Gaussian97
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As I said my goal is to derive the equation ##\tilde{B}^k(\vec{q})=-i\varepsilon^{ijk}q^i\tilde{A}^j_{cl}(\vec{q})##

As far as I know, the magnetic field is defined using the potential as ##\vec{B}=\vec{\nabla}\times\vec{A}##

Then in equation 6.6 they define ##A^\mu(x)=\int \frac{1}{(2\pi)^3}\tilde{A}^\mu(\vec{k})e^{-ikx}\text{d}^3 k## and an equivalent equation for ##\vec{B}##. So, using the definition
$$B^k=\varepsilon^{kij}\partial_i A^j=\int \frac{\varepsilon^{kij}}{(2\pi)^3}\tilde{A}^j(\vec{q})\partial_ie^{-iqx}\text{d}^3 q=\int \frac{1}{(2\pi)^3}\left[\varepsilon^{kij}\tilde{A}^j(\vec{q})(-iq_i)\right]e^{-iqx}\text{d}^3 q\Longrightarrow \tilde{B}^k=-i\varepsilon^{ijk}q_i\tilde{A}^j(\vec{q})$$

But this is not the equation the book gives, because we are using the metric ##(+---)## and then ##q^i=-q_i## so the equation I get is $$\tilde{B}^k=i\varepsilon^{ijk}q^i\tilde{A}^j(\vec{q})$$

Someone can tell me where is my error?

Thank you very much :)
 
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Let's do it in the 3D formalism first. The integrand is
##\vec{A}_{\vec{q}}(x)=\vec{\tilde{A}}(\vec{q}) \exp(-\mathrm{i} q x)=\vec{\tilde{A}}(\vec{q}) \exp(-\mathrm{i} k t + \mathrm{i} \vec{k} \cdot \vec{x}),
##
from which
$$\vec{\nabla} \times \vec{A}_{\vec{q}}(x)=-\vec{\tilde{A}}(\vec{q}) \times \exp(-\mathrm{i} q^0 t + \mathrm{i} \vec{q} \cdot \vec{x})=-\vec{\tilde{A}}(\vec{q}) \times \mathrm{i} \vec{q} \exp(-\mathrm{i} q^0 t + \mathrm{i} \vec{q} \cdot \vec{x})=\vec{\tilde{B}}_{\vec{q}} \exp(-\mathrm{i} q^0 t + \mathrm{i} \vec{q} \cdot \vec{x}).$$
In the Ricci calculus this reads
$$\tilde{B}^k=-\mathrm{i} \epsilon^{ijk} \tilde{A}_{\vec{q}}^i q^j=+\mathrm{i} \epsilon^{ijk} q^i \tilde{A}_{\vec{q}}^j.$$
So you are right.

Note that Peskin and Schroeder is full of typos. You always have to check any formula yourself ;-)).
 
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Ok, thank you very much
 

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